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Best VPNs for Streaming in 2024

By Will Ellis
Last Updated on March 26, 2024
Best VPN for Streaming

You’ve sorted your online security, got a VPN installed, and can rest soundly knowing the government isn’t snooping on your internet usage.

This calls for a beer in front of the TV and a good old relax.

You load up your Netflix, ready to watch… I don’t know, Rick and Morty? But it’s blocked! You try Amazon prime. Blocked! Disney play? Blocked!

Your mind is racing, terrified of the prospect of being left alone with your own thoughts! You scrape the bottom of the barrel, trying BBC iPlayer in one last fit of desperation!

The site buffers, you bite your nails. But alas, it’s is blocked as well. Silence reigns.

This tragic tale has befallen many an upstanding VPN user, bringing them to ruin and boredom because for a good deal of VPNs out there, streaming just isn’t an option.

So, before you blow your cash on a new VPN and lock yourself into a sans-streaming year-long contract, check out our list for the best streaming-compatible VPNs. Before you too are caught in such a tragic event.

TLDR

Many of the VPNs out there aren’t compatible with streaming services or have extremely poor coverage of them. This list provides the best VPNs for streaming compatibility, so you don’t have to compromise between entertainment and security.

Table of Contents:

The Best VPN for Streaming


A VPN for streaming should give you all the standard benefits of anonymity and security, alongside an unimpeded and -if you’ve got the right product- an improved streaming experience. Your very first concern is those basics, am I secure, and am I anonymous?

These feed into your overall streaming experience but are important to consider on their own. Plenty of sub-par and unsafe systems will lure you in with the promise of unlimited streaming access, before mishandling or outright stealing your data.

So first any frequent streamers VPN should first look for the protections their data will receive. The standard checklist to fill is a no-logging policy, legally secure base of operations, quality encryption, and secure data VPN  protocols. This kind of protection should be a prerequisite, not a bonus; without it, you’ll always be at risk.

When the security is locked down, then it’s time to look for streaming compatibility. A decent VPN will allow you unimpeded access to your normal streaming services. This could be through features such as split tunneling, allowing you to partially dip out of the VPN tunnel to access the streaming service. But why settle for the same, when you could go better?

If you get a really good VPN, you’ll be able to pick and choose regional streaming catalogs, bypass censorship, avoid ISP throttling and stream in super fast HD quality. What you’ll be looking for here is a big server range and plenty of locations; an intuitive UI is ideal and will make the whole experience a lot more straightforward.

Watching Netflix but found out a show is only accessible for American users? No worries, simply swap over to a US server. Traveling in China and blocked out of Youtube? Just skip that censorship with the click of a button. That’s the kind of ease you should be dealing with in true streaming compatible VPN.

1. NordVPN – All Around Best VPN for Australians


NordVPN is a perfect VPN service to use if you’re looking to stream your favorite shows.

What is NordVPN?

Given its proven record of success for streaming purposes, NordVPN is at the top of our list.

For streaming, NordVPN goes for specialization, rather than general application.

While not all its servers are streaming-compatible, with specialized high bandwidth servers, those that are excel.

The 5000 plus servers spread across the globe mean bypassing geo-restrictions is a simple process, made all the easier by the automated server connections.

The more general security and anonymity functions take no hit from its wide streaming-compatibility, still being some of the toughest security on the market.

It’s  a pricier product than Surfshark, but still delivers a product great for streaming. Here are some of those impressive features:

  • Intuitive feature-package: Nord’s huge array of features mean you’ll be kept safe and anonymous no matter what the situation.
  • Huge server selection: the more than 5000 servers across 60+ countries means Geo-locks are easy to pass by. There’s so many you might even feel spoilt for choice.
  • CyberSec: this built-in package keeps annoying ads and malware at bay, so you can binge YouTube without having to skip an ad every other video.
  • User-friendly: with an intuitive UI, simple set up, and responsive customer care, this is an easy VPN to use. Meaning you can spend time watching your favorite streams without worrying about tweaking your VPN every five minutes!
  • Outstanding security: military-grade encryption, Panama based and with a strict no-logging policy, it’s no wonder NordVPN can boast that its go security “even a supercomputer can’t crack”

Do We Recommend NordVPN for Streaming?

Yes, when it comes to bypassing geo-blocks and obscuring your location, NordVPN is second to none. Even though it might take a bit more fiddling to get a server that is streaming-compatible for your desired location, the possibilities it offers are unmatched.

If you’re looking for a solid VPN with a long track record and plenty of streaming utility, this is certainly a recommended product. You can also use NordVPN in order to get your account unbanned on Twitch.

2. PrivateVPN – Best VPN for Unblocking Media 


PrivateVPN is one of the fastest-growing private VPNs in the world, and it works to unblock media.

What is PrivateVPN?

PrivateVPN is a fast-growing VPN provider. Its main focus is to help users enjoy the internet at lightning speeds at affordable rates. This service will help you stay private and secure. Its 30-day money-back guarantee means you’ll easily reclaim your money if you’re unhappy with its features or service within 30 days.

I noticed that it is present in 63 locations, and it features servers and 200 servers at the moment. It offers servers in Australia, so connecting to them is a breeze. You’ll have no trouble enjoying unlimited speeds.

What’s ideal about PrivateVPN is that it offers a VPN for Netflix libraries and BBC iPlayer. If you want to stream content, this is one of the VPN providers that makes it possible.

Some of the standout features of PrivateVPN include the following examples:

  • Unlimited bandwidth: To prevent time-consuming buffering, PrivateVPN offers you unlimited bandwidth. This feature comes with the VPN for Netflix and works with streaming sites. 
  • Simultaneous connections: If you’re accessing streaming platforms through an internet connection on several devices, PrivateVPN can help. It doesn’t offer unlimited simultaneous connections, but it does allow a maximum of six devices to connect to the VPN servers and services with the Netflix service.
  • 2048-bit encryption: Since security is a priority for PrivateVPN, it offers 2048-bit encryption with its Netflix streaming services VPN. It keeps your account secure when you’re streaming.
  • Overseas access to Netflix libraries: If you’re overseas, you’ll still be able to enjoy Netflix. This VPN gives you access to your home country’s Netflix libraries even when you’re not at home.
  • HD streaming: Unlimited-bandwidth HQNs provided with PrivateVPN also make it possible to stream content in high-definition quality.

Do We Recommend PrivateVPN for Streaming?

We recommend PrivateVPN for streaming. With its many perks and features, streaming through this VPN is easy, fast and convenient. Not only can you view Netflix and BBC iPlayer overseas, but it’s also one of the best VPN services or virtual private network providers for streaming and security. 

3. Proton VPN – Best VPN for High Speed Stable Services


Proton VPN is a speedy, stable, secure VPN that makes streaming possible from various locations.

What is Proton VPN?

Proton VPN was created by CERN scientists. It offers fast and secure connections and many additional features, which you’ll learn more about in just a minute in this article! This VPN provider makes our list for its high-speed VPN servers that make streaming content a simple and convenient process.

It offers 3,851 servers currently. These servers are advanced and ideal for offshore streaming since they are located in many countries worldwide.

Its servers are compatible with Amazon Prime Video and other streaming platform services. Netflix is one popular streaming platform that you can access with this service without interruption from a slow connection.

A few of the handy streaming features this VPN provider offers include the following:

  • VPN unblocker: The Proton VPN can unblock several types of online media services. With this feature, you can access and stream your content from any global location, even content that you would receive locally from overseas. You’ll be able to access any geo-restricted content with ease.
  • Fast server network: With a VPN accelerator, streaming is a smooth and buffer-free experience. It can increase speeds by up to 400%. This feature allows you to watch movies in 4K quality.
  • Stream on any device: It’s possible to stream without security risks on any device, thanks to the highly secure VPN protocols. Advanced encryption including AES-256 keeps your devices secure.
  • No throttling with internet traffic encryption: Unlike an internet connection without a VPN, using Proton VPN will prevent your internet provider from seeing your browsing activity and ensure it doesn’t slow your connection down.
  • Stable connections with WireGuard: A stable connection is important when streaming services. Proton VPN is one of the best streaming VPNs since it offers WireGuard protocols to stabilise your connection.

Do We Recommend Proton VPN for Streaming?

We certainly recommend Proton VPN for streaming. This service is easy to set up and comes with multiple advantages. It takes just three steps, including signing up, connecting to their Plus server and logging in to the account. 

We noticed that the speed of the Proton VPN was ideal for streaming services, which is why this VPN is featured on our list.

4. TorGuard – Best for Secure Streaming


TorGuard makes anonymous secure browsing and streaming effortless

What is TorGuard?

TorGuard offers the pinnacle of secure, anonymous browsing and comes with additional perks. We noticed it comes with more than 3,000 server locations across the globe. Its servers are distributed across 50 countries, including Australia.

This VPN offers multiple features such as simultaneous connections and unlimited bandwidth.

The unlimited bandwidth means limitations do not apply to your transmitted data. But there’s more to look forward to with this service!

We liked the fact that TorGuard also works with multiple platforms, ensuring you can stream content easily on Windows, MacOS, Android, Apple and more.

Some of the features of TorGuard include the following:

  • Unrestricted access to the internet: You won’t have to be limited by geo-restricted content when streaming; TorGuard will allow you to access the content and keep your IP addresses hidden.
  • Streaming included: You can add extra packages to your subscription, which include streaming with a dedicated VPN IP service.
  • Bypass throttling service: Using TorGuard, you can receive bypass throttling features. These features will eliminate throttling when you access streaming content.
  • 8 simultaneous connections: If you need to stream content on multiple devices, seamless streaming is available with TorGuard. You can use eight simultaneous connections with their VPN and combine this feature with the streaming packages.
  • High security: The Torguard service provides secure internet access thanks to its advanced encryption and VPN anonymity.

Do We Recommend TorGuard VPN for Streaming?

To a large extent, TorGuard is a good option for streaming. Other VPN connections and providers offer specific selling points with their Netflix features, sold strongly on their websites, so they have more specialised plans that work well with features like Android TV.

However, TorGuard still works much better than a free streaming VPN, including limitless bandwidth and limitless speed.

5. Hide.Me – Best for Device Compatibility When Streaming


One of the fastest VPN providers with excellent customer reviews and device compatibility benefits when streaming content.

What is Hide.Me VPN?

Hide.Me VPN is ideal for streaming. This VPN provider has 2,400 servers in Asia, Europe and the United States. You’ll find VPN servers from Hide.Me in Australia.

Some of the Australian cities Hide.Me is available in include Adelaide, Melbourne, Perth, Brisbane and Perth. It offers premium VPN services with top features (you can skip ahead to those bullet points below if you’re looking for the key streaming features!).

Hide.Me will always protect your privacy. But beyond this, it works for streaming for many reasons. It provides plenty of resources to offer an excellent streaming process.

Hide.Me offers plenty of features––here are a few examples:

  • Uninterrupted streaming: This VPN specifically states that it offers an uninterrupted download and streaming experience. It offers an optimised network that makes streaming seamless.
  • No throttling: Connections to this VPN will eliminate throttling and ensure that there are no disconnections. I used the free plan and found this feature still applied. 
  • Browser extensions that facilitate streaming: You can use a proxy browser extension to use with Chrome and receive no data caps with Hide.Me.
  • Unblock media: You’ve got the option to use the Hide.Me VPN to unblock media with their offshore VPN service. This means that if you need to connect with servers to access content from Australia and you’re not home, you can still access it.
  • All devices are compatible with the apps: You will be able to use the premium VPN with any device. Some device compatibility options you can choose from include Windows Phone, Linux, Android, macOS, iOS and Windows.

Do We Recommend Hide.Me VPN for Streaming?

We recommend Hide.Me VPN for streaming to some extent. It offers fewer of the specific Netflix library streaming perks that come with many of the other VPNs on this list. However, it does provide high speeds and an excellent streaming experience.

6. Private Internet Access – Best VPN for Its Intuitive Interface


It is an excellent VPN with an easy-to-navigate interface and one of the best options for digital privacy when streaming.

What is Private Internet Access?

Private Internet Access is a VPN accessible in Australia that offers various handy features, which we’ll get to in a moment!

It offers services to more than 15 million customers across the globe, and one of its benefits is its streaming perks. You can stream with efficiency with this service, and many of its customers like its intuitive and customisable interface––so you can access advanced settings when needed.

This VPN provider has been around for more than 10 years so that you will be in good hands with this option. If you also need support from the Private Internet Access team, you’ll get that straight away in a live context. Its interface is intuitive, meaning you can use it with ease.

Here are some of the many handy features Private Internet Access offers:

  • Excellent speeds: For all your streaming requirements, Private Internet Access offers excellent speeds. These speeds are available through its high-end servers that are run at the rate of 10Gbps.
  • Buffer-free and lag-free streaming: Since the servers work so efficiently, users can enjoy lag- and buffer-free streaming by accessing a global VPN network. It helps you prevent congestion on the network and enjoy the outcomes of seamless streaming support.
  • Streaming on any device: This service enables you to stream on any device. In fact, you can get simultaneous access to VPNs through unlimited devices. For example, you can use an Android or Apple smartphone with this VPN. For this, you will only need one subscription.
  • Unlimited bandwidth: Using Private Internet Access, you’ll receive unlimited bandwidth. The extensive server network will ensure you never experience throttling with your internet speeds.
  • Smart TV VPN: You have the option of using a Smart TV VPN to change your virtual location. This feature functions with every app and will allow you to stream high-definition movies without experiencing a drop in connections.
  • Sports streaming possible: It’s possible to connect to any Private Internet Access server to access and view sports from any location. You can do this with no buffering or throttling.

Do We Recommend Private Internet Access VPN for Streaming?

Yes, Private Internet Access is an excellent VPN for streaming. It offers specific VPN features that make streaming easier and seamless. It will prevent throttling and offer excellent speeds.

This VPN is also low-cost, meaning you can access all of these handy features and avoid spending a fortune for excellent VPN services for streaming.

7. Hotspot Shield – Best for Encryption and IP Masking


Hotspot Shield offers advanced encryption that will keep your data secure when you use its VPN for streaming.

What is Hotspot Shield?

Hotspot Shield is a VPN service that offers military-grade encryption as you stream content all around the world. It features servers in more than 80 countries, Australia included.

This VPN provider has earned the trust of millions of internet users around the world and excellent reviews from OOKLA speedtest, ZDNet, TechRadar and more.

It offers incredible encryption and IP masking options so you can stream with confidence.

Hotspot Shield offers a free trial with their service, and customer reviews state that it is the best VPN for streaming Netflix libraries.

Here are some of the features of the Hotspot Shield VPN service:

  • Possible to stream sports: If you want to stream live sports, you can do so with Hotspot Shield. This service offers blazing-fast speeds that will ensure a smooth and seamless viewing experience.
  • No buffering: With Hotspot Shield, you will not experience buffering or throttling when you view live sports or stream content from streaming sites.
  • Unblock streaming services: It’s possible to unblock streaming to watch the content you enjoy with Hotspot Shield. Not only can you stream Netflix, but you can also access Amazon Prime Video, Youtube, Twitch, and Hulu. The VPN will unblock these services so you can access content from any location using a new IP address.
  • Watch content on various devices: Using up to five devices with this VPN is possible. You can use this with Android, Mac, Windows, iOS and Chrome with the premium plan. You only require a single account to access these benefits.

Do We Recommend Hotspot Shield for Streaming?

On the whole, we recommend Hotspot Shield for streaming. It might not be one of the entirely free VPN services, but it offers a free trial and a VPN connection that helps you stream music, access live sports, unblock movies and stream other content while keeping secure online. 

8. CyberGhost – Best Option for Travellers


A reliable VPN service that offers protection through global servers when streaming, including in Australia.  

What is CyberGhost?

CyberGhost is a top VPN option for streaming a range of content. Generally speaking, it is a service that has servers for streaming in more than 100 countries and 126 cities.

This VPN provider has servers in key cities in Australia, including Sydney and Brisbane, and it offers a new one in Melbourne.

Its dedicated streaming servers make binging series, movies and documentaries easier. It’s also ideal if you travel to different locations within Australia.

If you’re curious to know the main features CyberGhost offers, here are the ones I found ideal:

  • Servers that are streaming optimised: CyberGhost’s servers are optimised for streaming. You can receive excellent connections to stream traffic on services such as Netflix, Disney+, Amazon Prime Video and plenty of others.
  • Stream on all devices: CyberGhost will ensure you can stream on any device, from macOS and Android, to iOS and Windows. The service just requires you to download the CyberGhost VPN on the device of your choice.
  • Lag-free streaming: I noticed that this service provides lag-free streaming perks and eliminates buffering. It is a fast VPN that doesn’t have bandwidth limits.
  • Fast servers: With WireGuard®, OpenVPN and IKEv2 protocols, and 10Gbps servers, this VPN provider provides reliable connections that will not let you down.
  • No logs policy: CyberGhost has a no logs policy, meaning they will not spy on your activity or store your browsing data.

Do We Recommend CyberGhost for Streaming?

While CyberGhost does not accept connecting to VPN servers in locations that have your favourite platforms, we still recommend this VPN service for streaming. CyberGhost offers the reliable connections you need to stream seamlessly. It eliminates the potential for the internet service provider to slow your speeds if you use high amounts of bandwidth. It’s also a low-cost option with plenty of features to use.

9. Surfshark – An Awesome Choice If Your Budget Is Tight


A newcomer in the VPN market, Surfshark is worth checking out for fast speeds at a great price. 

What is Surfshark?

Surfshark is extremely effective. Unlike most streaming-compatible VPNs that can be connected through some of their servers, every single one of Surfshark’s servers can access the major streaming services.

This includes all Netflix region catalogs, and we’ve already crowned Surfshark as one of our top VPNs for Netflix.

Netflix

Aside from its prowess in the streaming game, the VPN it provides is cheap and effective protection. This service isn’t a one-trick pony, it will serve you well in all respects a VPN should, but simply excels at its streaming compatibility. Aside from a UI that could use some work, this is a VPN that is impressive on all counts.

Heres’ what puts it near the top of the list:

  • Impressive streaming coverage: covering all the major platforms (and across the vast majority of their geo-zones) and a plethora of smaller ones, Surfshark truly excels as a streaming VPN.
  • Budget cost, premium product: An 81% discount is available if you decide for a 2-year plan ($3.39/m)
  • Secure: With no recorded leaks, a no-logging policy and a Solid DNS testing run, you can stream safe in the knowledge that your data is secure.
  • NoBorders: A feature that automatically changes server locations to bypass geo-restrictions while streaming.
  • Cleanweb: not all streaming services are secure, so Surfshark’s built-in security platform, CleanWeb, is an invaluable tool. It will protect you against malware, phishing, trackers and even block ads on it’s own.
  • Camouflage mode: A feature that not only hides your location but also the fact that you’re even using a VPN
  • Quick data: Not the fastest VPN there is, but more than suitable for streaming in HD quality without any issues or lag.

Do We Recommend Surfshark for Streaming?

If greater streaming access is your primary reason for getting a VPN, Surfshark is a great choice. Low-cost, wide-ranging compatibility and a plethora of other handy features make this an extremely effective VPN for streamers.

10. ExpressVPN – Pricey But Very Well Worth It


Having top of the line VPN protection doesn’t have to mean you need to sacrifice your access to streaming, which is exactly where ExpressVPN comes in. It might not be able to go toe to toe with NordVPN for streaming compatibility, but it still stands head and shoulders above most VPNs on the market when it comes to its streaming capabilities.

What is ExpressVPN?

One of the biggest issues for streaming through a VPN is speed, even the compatible services often slow down the stream.

For ExpressVPN, this is not an issue. It’s undoubtedly one of the fastest VPNs available on the web.

If you’re looking for a VPN mainly for streaming this is a great choice. Its UI is simple and easy to use, so you won’t have to spend much time configuring. It solves the issue of server-incompatibility with a system known as split-tunneling. The 3,000 servers make geo-blocking likewise easy to overcome.

With ironclad security behind this, this premium-priced service delivers premium results.

  • Super-fast: We tested more than 15 VPNs using online speed test services – ExpressVPN was always the fastest.
  • Globe spanning servers: 94 countries, 3,000 servers, and 160 locations. Impressive but not as impressive as NordVPN. Still, the variety of servers gives you plenty of options for bypassing geo-blocks.
  • Perfect UI: ExpressVPN is a tried and tested service, and over time they have finely tuned their UI to be one the most user-friendly VPN products on the market. High price for highest quality: a high-quality cheap VPN is hard to find. If that’s what you’re looking for, then ExpressVPN might be a bit steep for you. However, if you want absolute best VPN for maintaining your privacy and anonimity, then $9.99 a month if you for 6 months, or $6.67 a month for the full year is not so expensive.

Do We Recommend ExpressVPN for Streaming?

With a greater focus on security and anonymity, rather than streaming, ExpressVPN can’t really outcompete the other VPNs on this list. That said, it is a fantastic product, so if you are serious about your online security but don’t want to sacrifice your favorite streaming services, ExpressVPN is the product for you.

Conclusion


With vast compatibility, good speed, a total security package for a good price, NordVPN tops this list. NordVPN is our top pick, providing superb streaming-compatibility with a solid security bedrock, all for an affordable price.


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